Catholic bishops thank Bruno for not acting on gay marriage bill

Following last week's vote by the New York State Assembly in favor of same-sex marriage and Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno's announcement that his house would not take up the issue, the New York State Catholic Conference issued a statement.

The Conference represents the state's bishops in matters of public policy; the statement was made by Richard E. Barnes, executive director:

"Like millions of other New Yorkers, the state's Catholic bishops are grateful to Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno and his Republican majority conference for their principled stand in favor of traditional marriage as it has always been understood.

"Sen. Bruno and his members will likely face criticism from liberal editorial boards across the state, but the mainstream New York voting public is surely supportive of the Senate's position.

"Yes, homosexual men and women deserve respect and compassion, but marriage is an institution that mirrors nature, and is designed as the union of physically and emotionally complementary partners to ensure the stable rearing of children.

"With a new governor pushing a radical agenda that has the support of many of the media elites in our state, Senator Bruno's decision took courage. He and his colleagues can be assured that it is appreciated, and it will be remembered."

(6/28/07) [[In-content Ad]]